Singapore Immigration Consultancy

Substantial pay rise seen here

2010-07-01T11:29:00.002+08:00

Great news: Singapore employment is up

2009-12-15T16:55:00.003+08:00

SINGAPORE - Total employment for the third quarter of 2009 grew by 14,000, offsetting the losses of 6,200 and 7,700 in the first and second quarters of the year respectively.

This increase resulted in the total employment in September 2009 recovering to around Dec 2008 level.

Services and manufacturing continued to expand at a higher rate - 12,700 and 7,400 respectively - than previous quarters. Manufacturing continued its fourth consecutive quarter of decline, albeit at a lower rate (-6,400) than the 1st two quarters of the year.

Meanwhile, the unemployment figure rose slightly to a seasonally adjusted 3.4 per cent in the third quarter of 2009, from 3.3 per cent in June 2009, but below the peak of 4.8 per cent in September 2003 due to the SARS outbreak.

However, among the resident labour force, the rate increased to 5 per cent in June 2009. Long term unemployment has also risen, with the number of job seekers looking for a job for over 25 weeks almost doubling from 9,600 in September 08 to 18,400 in September 09.

Re-employment rose as well, with over half of residents retrenched in the second quarter of the year re-employed by September 2009. Job vacancies also rose 34,900 in September 09, up 42 per cent from June 09.

From AsiaOne Tue, Dec 15, 2009

Things you should know about CPF for PR holders (part 2)

2009-12-14T13:01:00.007+08:00

I. WHAT IS CPF

CPF contributions are payable once a foreign employee obtains SPR status. To help the
employee adjust to the lower take-home pay, both the employer and employee will contribute CPF at graduated rates for the first two years.

The first year rate is payable on the date of your employee’s conversion to a SPR. The second and third year rates are payable from the month following the anniversary of the employee’s conversion to a SPR.

For example, if your employee became a SPR on 23 January 2009, the first year rate would apply from 23 January 2009. The second and third year rates will apply from 1 February 2010 and 1 February 2011 respectively.

Foreigners, who have obtained their SPR status, should only maintain one CPF account.
Employers should inform such employees to merge their previous CPF account (if any)
with their new CPF account.

CPF contributions for SPRs into CPF accounts with the prefix SA/SB/SD/SF/TC/TF will be rejected. Merging of CPF accounts can be done by submitting clear photocopies of the documents listed below:

Singapore Identity Card

Passport

CPF Membership Card

Entry/Re-entry permit

Below is the total CPF contribution rate

II. TYPES OF SPR CONTRIBUTIONS

SPR employees and their employers have the option to jointly apply to CPF Board to contribute at other prescribed rates during the employee’s first two years of obtaining the SPR status.

A summary of the options available is as follow:

Option (1) applies once your employee obtains his SPR status. For options (2) and (3), the employer and employee must jointly apply to the Board using the prescribed form CNR/PR/94A. Once the application is approved, it is irrevocable. These rates will cease to apply upon a change of employment within the first two years, i.e. the rates will go back to the graduated rates.

CPF contribution rates for SPR first year and second year:

For further infos and want to calculate on how much do you need to contribute to CPF, simply click HERE.

Foreign Workers in demand

2009-12-09T14:08:00.000+08:00

COMPANIES that rely on foreign workers want the Government to let them hire more of them, according to a survey.

The call is particularly intense from contractors and manufacturers, who feel the quota should be adjusted for specific sectors. Foreign workers form up to 70 per cent of the workforce in these two sectors.

Overall, almost half of the businesses surveyed are unhappy with the foreign worker quota policy.

They want it raised in order for them to meet orders, which have been increasing in the past few months as Singapore's economy claws its way out of the red.

But such a move could hurt Singapore's competitive edge, said economics professor Davin Chor from Singapore Management University.

'Long-run growth depends on the capacity of our economy to consistently improve on our productivity and the way we tap into cutting-edge technologies,' he said.

*From The Strait Times- 9th December 2009

Two- thirds PR application successful

2009-11-24T10:46:00.003+08:00

An average of 46,300 people are granted Singaporean permanent resident (PR) status every year for the past eight years, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs Mr Wong Kan Seng said in Parliament today.

In his reply to Mr Chiam See Tong's question about the number of PR applications received, granted and PR statuses renounced, Mr Wong said that PR applications have been increasing steadily in recent years.

From 2000 to 2008, an average of 74,500 applications for permanent residency were submitted by foreigners each year. Of these, an average of 46,300 applications were successful.

An average of 2,200 also renounced their PR status each year during the same period.

Mr Wong said that the increase in number of people granted PR was due to two factors, namely a strong economy and the need to augment Singapore's population.

A booming economy growth of 6 per cent to 8 percent between 2004 and 2007 meant that Singapore required more foreigners to work here. Most did not intend to stay long term, but "a good many" are well-qualified, skilled personnel who decided to stay longer and applied for PR.

Singapore's low fertility rate also meant that the country would age rapidly and start to decline by 2020 if the country closes its doors to foreigners. This would increase the burden of Singaporeans and the country's competitiveness would decrease.

Mr Wong also said that the Government recognizes that Singaporeans feel anxious about the large inflow of foreigners in recent years.

Singaporeans should not think that all foreigners here are PRs, he said. A large portion of foreigners are here on short-term passes, with 1,253,000 non-residents in Singapore as compared to 533,000 PRs.

While Singapore needs the continuing inflow of immigrants into the country, Mr Wong said that the government is mindful of the concerns of Singaporeans.

***Mon, Nov 23, 2009 AsiaOne

Stricter rules for Entre Pass get expats worked up.

2009-11-10T14:54:00.004+08:00

The latest news for foreigners who want to set up a business in Singapore was revised by Ministry of Manpower (MOM) recently: "foreigners who want to set up businesses in Singapore are causing jitters among some expatriates"

"The amendments to the EntrePass scheme, made at the end of September, have made it more rigorous for new applicants, but those already on it fear they too will be asked to meet the new, higher standards. Previously, applicants for the pass had to submit a business plan and put down a $3,000 bankers guarantee or get a Singaporean sponsor.

Now, new applicants also have to:

1. Register their company as a private limited-concern

2. Hold a share of at least 30 per cent in the company; and

3. Have at least $50,000 in paid up capital

There are also specific guidelines to ensure that the businesses they set up create employment opportunity for Singaporeans. When they first renew the permits- each permit is valid for a maximum of two year- the business owners will have to show that they employ at least 2 Singaporeans and have total business spending of at least S$100,000 over the past year.

At subsequent renewals, they have to employ at least four Singaporeans and have total business spending of at least S$150,000 over the past year.

The MOM, which administers the scheme, said the changes are a way of ensuring that Singaporeans workers benefit from enterprises set up here. Said a spokeman: "A key characteristic of the new EntrePass framework is the requirement for all companies set up by EntrePass holders to employ locals".

Asked if the change is due to businesses under the old EntrePass not giving jobs to Singaporeans, the ministry said the old framework also considered employment creation, but the new framework has put down mandatory business requirements.

MOM receives about 3,000 EntrePass applicants a year, of which about half are approved. Those under the old framework- about 1, 700- have been given a choice to stay on it or transit to new requirements.

Asked if those renewing their passes under the old framework will also be subjected to the more rigorous assessment, the MOM would only say it is on case by case basis"

***According to ANg Yiying, The Straits Times on 4th November 2009.

Singapore- a top choice for migrants

2009-11-09T15:57:00.003+08:00

Singapore is a top immigration hot spot, according to a global survey conducted by Gallup. If it were to take in all adults who wish to settle in the country, its adult population of 3.6 million would jump to 13 million, said the survey released this week.

Gallup arrived at this figure by using what it called the Potential Net Migration Index (PNMI). The index is the estimated number of adults who wish to leave a country permanently subtracted from the estimated number who wish to immigrate to the country, as a proportion of the total adult population. The higher a positive PNMI value, the greater the potential of net population gain, the proportional to the population size.

Singapore emerged tops with the highest PNMI value of 260 per cent, followed by Saudi Arabia (180 per cent), New Zealand (175 per cent), Canada (170 per cent) and Australia (145 per cent) *** photo

Singapore's ranking in the PNMI may not be entirely surprising given its relatively small population size and strong and stable economy, analysts said. According to the United Nations' 2009 Human Development Report, Singapore is already a popular immigration destination. It ranked No.10 in the world in terms of the share of immigrants as part of total population, at 35 per cent.

The UN report also showed that Singapore had a relatively low emigration rate of 6.3 per cent. "If most of those who say they want to come here are mostly economic migrants from other Asian countries, I won't be surprised because Singapore's economy is doing quite well relatively, " Dr Chua Beng Huat, a sociology professor at the National University of Singapore, told The Straits Times when asked to comment on the Gallup survey findings.

**By Lin ZhaoWei from The Straits Time on Thursday, November 5 2009.

Singaporean and Singapore PRs: What are the differences???

2009-10-26T11:43:00.008+08:00

There have been many articles, discussions, etc...talking about benefits of being Singaporean and Singapore PR? So what are the differences actually?
According to Zakir Hussain in The Straits Time on 24th October, 2009:

"If you are a Singapore citizen, you have the right to vote, visit 150 countries without a visa on your red passport, and receive a slew of tax reliefs and a cornucopia of subsidies. If you are so inclined, you can form a political party, launch a tirade and stage a protest at Speakers' Corner on most matters- but race and religion are off-limits. Indeed, from the cradle- or from the point you are given a pink IC- to the sick bed, you have a leg up over permanent residents (PRs) and foreigners working or living here.

Should you have the misfortune of becoming destitute or unable to support yourself, you would qualify for public assistance, Com-Care aid, a rental flat and hand-outs to help pay your utility bills and conservancy charges. And if you fall ill, you can bank on Medi-fund to pay for your hospital bills. "

In addition, National Population Secretariat (NPS) said: "Citizenship is a birthright for legitimate children of Singapore citizen parents. As such, citizen enjoy more rights and benefits than PRs".

However, many Singaporean are still complaining about being marginalised by the influx of new arrivals and becoming strangers in their own country. They insist saying there is no difference between Singaporean and Singapore PRs. So what is the truth?

To all these concerns, P.M Lee Hsien Loong told 1, 5000 Nanyang Technological University student in last month that there will be a sharper differentiation in treating Singaporean and Singapore PRs "to reflect the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship"....

Look at the table below to see what are the differences between Singaporean and Singapore PRs.

So overall, being Singaporeans, you will have 3 kinds of rights.

1. Civil rights as such: "the right to speak freely at Speakers' Corner", said Dr. Tan. The right to own property, to freedom of religion and to equality before the law.

2. Political rights such as the right to vote and to stand for office. According to public law expert Kevin Tan "If you say you are a citizen, the most blatant right is the right to vote, but because of the GRC system, there are a large number of Singaporeans who have never voted in their life. As a result, they do not feel they are citizens in the political sense"

3. Social rights such as the right to education, housing and protection against poverty.

But then, another question is raising up: "What are the benefits for Singapore PRs?" We gotta look back at the pictures above to compare about benefits for Singapore PRs vs. foreigners. There are some benefits for Singapore PRs too. "PRs must continue to feel they have a place here, as they would otherwise leave for more welcoming shores, to Singapore's loss. But citizenship has to also appeal to them, just as it has to mean more to those born-and-bred here, beyond the bread-and-butter concerns and monetary advantages.

Prof. Straughan sums it up: "Being Singaporean means membership in a sovereign state that is socially, politically and economically stable and secure, where people from different races can live together in harmony, and where our respective religions can be practised openly. More importantly, being Singaporean also means we can rely on a government that is free from corruption and where national policies are sensible and apt."

"If we continue to advance Singapore as a city state where you can raise your family in a wholesome, vibrant city governed by efficient and honest policymakers, with a world-class education and health-care system, and where basic needs of citizens are met, I think that would elevate the prestige of Singapore citizenship"

Important: PR and National Service

2009-10-23T12:46:00.000+08:00

Under the Enlistment Act, all male Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents are liable to register for National Service (NS) upon reaching 16½ years old. They are required to serve 2 years of full-time NS at 18 years old, followed by 40 days of Operationally Ready National Service per year till the age of 50 years (for officers) or 40 years (for other ranks).

Main applicants who are granted PR status under the first generation Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS) Scheme and the Investor Scheme are exempted from NS. Male children who are granted PR status under their parents' sponsorship are liable for NS under the Enlistment Act.

All NS-liable males aged 13 years old and above, are required to obtain an Exit Permit (EP) when traveling overseas for 3 months or more.

NS-liable PRs are expected to serve NS. Renouncing or losing one's PR status without serving or completing full-time NS would have an adverse impact on any immediate or future applications to work or study in Singapore, or for Singapore citizenship or PR status.

Males who are granted Singapore PR, and who were previously Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents, are liable to be called up for NS regardless of the type of PR status they have been granted. For further inquiries, please write to:

Central Manpower Base
CMPB Podium
3, Depot Road
Singapore 109680
Tel : 1800-3676767 (local)
65-65676767 (overseas)

Why oversea clients trust us?

2009-10-07T11:03:00.011+08:00

Have been in the immigration and PR application services for about 12 years, we have done so many applications for all clients from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Australia, India, Malaysia, Vietnam, etc....Each of them have different purposes and situations why they choose Singapore to settle down. We understand that we are not perfect yet but we are trying our best to understand fully our clients needs and wants, to assist them til the end of their applications.

So far, below are some feedbacks from our previous clients that we would like to share with you about: What we are doing? Why the clients from other countries trust us?, etc:

Applicants from Indonesia

From Fredy to us!

From Donny Gunawan!

From Cameron!

From Xuan Li (Australia):

From Lester (Philippines)

Applicant from Indian
1. How did you know about our company?
Through your web side
2. How many companies have you contacted before regarding PR application?
Three company
3. What made you choose us?
you are very friendly to customer, when we are dealing with you we really feel that that we are dealing with our family member
4. There are many cheating cases over the internet before, was you afraid when u decided to make a payment to us? Why you trusted us?
No, a person who want to do business can not think about cheating
5. During the processing time, was there any problem you encountered that made you not happy about?
No
6. Do you think anything that Yen Yang management needs to improve a lot more?
some times you should call your customer, You should not be worried about telephone bill

Thanks

Rajesh P. Maradia

We deeply appreciate all the constructive comments from all of our applicants and wish to hear a lot more in order for us to improve our service better and better. We believe ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS, look at our application files and records we have here:

Company license and application files. With all these proofs above, you can put your Faith completely to us because WE ARE NOT JUST TALKING, WE ARE DOING !!!

S'pore: 5 millions population is on the way to hit.

2009-09-29T10:54:00.003+08:00

SINGAPORE'S population hit almost 4.99 million in June this year, up 3.1 per cent from last year.

The growth has been fuelled mainly by the increase in immigrants, as the number of babies delivered by Singapore residents rose only marginally.

The figures released yesterday by the Department of Statistics show that the number of citizens grew from 3.16 million last year to 3.2 million this year, while that of permanent residents inched up from 0.48 million last year to 0.53 million this year.

The number of non-residents rose by 4.8 per cent to reach 1.25 million this year - a lower rise from the over-10 per cent rate in the last two years.

Just slightly more babies were born last year than in the previous year: 39,826, up 0.9 per cent. However, the total fertility rate dropped from 1.29 to 1.28 last year.

Associate Professor Paulin Straughan, a sociologist from the National University of Singapore, said that it is positive that Singapore has been able to sustain population growth, despite the recession and competition from other developed countries.

Like Singapore, they seek immigrants to make up for falling fertility rates.

Prof Straughan, who is also a Nominated Member of Parliament, said: "It shows that Singapore is a draw for migrants, that there are still jobs and quality of life here."

Administrative planner Yvonne Tay, 35, became a citizen in April this year, 16 years after coming here from Perak, as she wanted her children "to enjoy better education opportunities and subsidies as a citizen".

She said: "We're used to the lifestyle here, it's safe and peaceful. Half of my family is also here, and my sister's family also took up citizenship three years ago."

*By Lee Hui Chieh- The Straits Times on 29th September 2009

PRs upbeat about S'Pore

2009-09-28T11:54:00.002+08:00

A SURVEY of new citizens and permanent residents has unearthed among them largely positive attitudes towards Singapore as their new home.

But it also highlighted the need to ramp up efforts to integrate new immigrants at the workplace and educate them on the importance of Singapore's multiculturalism.

The survey of 360 new citizens and PRs was conducted in April and May by a study group commissioned by Reach, the government's feedback unit.

Among its findings: while almost four in five felt welcome in Singapore, 35.3 per cent also felt that co-workers in the workplace perceived them as competition.

The feeling was particularly acute among Filipinos, with 20.8 per cent of them reporting the sentiment.

On living in Singapore, 80.6 per cent found the cost of living manageable, and 77.2 per cent enjoyed watching local TV productions.

Dr Terence Chong, a sociologist with the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies and vice-chairman of the study group, noted that the largely positive findings were not surprising, given that the sample was drawn from those attending citizenship certificate presentation ceremonies.

These events are held at grassroots or national levels to welcome new citizens.

He said: 'Quite predictably, the results are positive because they wouldn't be new citizens if they do not enjoy living in Singapore.'

Still, he noted, the survey threw up some trends that Singapore needs to be alert to.

***From The Straits Time on 25th September

Quick decision makers are the one who win!

2009-09-16T15:43:00.004+08:00

Have you read the latest news today on Asiaone? It's said by Primie Minister Lee Hsien Loong that "SINGAPORE will not continue bringing in as many foreigners as it has done in recent years"

Previously, Singapore admited "many foreigners - more than 100,000 each year, mainly transient workers, but also including new citizens and permanent residents - had been imported in the last few years as the economy had been booming and needed more workers, he said" But now, "Singapore is not expected to grow at the same rate, so it will not admit foreigners at the same pace, he explained.

"We permitted the surge in recent years to respond to this extraordinary opportunity. We always knew that we couldn't sustain this inflow indefinitely," he said at the Nanyang Technological University Students' Union Ministerial Forum.

He was cognisant that the large inflow of foreigners has increasingly worried Singaporeans, who fear competition for jobs and societal changes posed by the newcomers.

But he reiterated Singapore's need for both foreign transient workers and immigrants. The workers take up jobs that are unpopular with Singaporeans, making it more viable for foreign firms to run here.

The immigrants shore up falling birth rates, and make the nation more entrepreneurial.

This can be seen in the case of Israel, which, despite a small population of seven million, has the most number of companies listed in the United States stock exchange after the US itself, because it took in talented immigrants, Mr Lee said.

"Over the long term, we need to bring in a continuing flow of immigrants," he added. "But we have to do it in a way which is mindful of how quickly our society can absorb and integrate the new arrivals, and to keep the tone of our society...We will adjust the inflows so that we will not dilute our national identity, or weaken our social cohesion.""

This announcements means Singapore entrance tickets for foreigners are running out of and only those who are quick in action, decision making will win. Not much time left for doubt, hesitatation, and consideration, you gotta DO IT if you want to GET IT. If you think you are talented, you have good educational background, you have rich working experiences, you have something that Singapore needs you....APPLY FOR PR RIGHT NOW BECAUSE CHANCES WILL NEVER COME TWICE!

Things you should know about CPF

2009-09-15T12:13:00.003+08:00

By Lorna Tan, Senior Correspondent

In the coming weeks, about 700,000 Central Provident Fund (CPF) members aged 55 and above will be invited to join the CPF Lifelong Income Scheme For The Elderly (CPF Life). The annuity scheme offers a choice of four plans that pay a monthly income for as long as you live.

These plans offer various combinations of two key elements that are traded off: monthly payouts and refund amounts upon death or withdrawal from the scheme.
Read related:

In other words, if you want higher monthly payouts, that will reduce any final payout to your beneficiaries.

The initiative has been widely welcomed as being superior to the current CPF Minimum Sum (MS) scheme, which gives monthly payouts for about 20 years, but not necessarily for as long as you live.

The MS is the amount you are required to set aside at age 55 for retirement needs in your Retirement Account. The Retirement Account is set up when you turn 55 with savings coming from your Ordinary and Special accounts. CPF Life payouts come from the Retirement Account.

With rising life expectancy, it is prudent to ensure that your retirement savings will last for all your days.

The opt-in system began on Sept 5 and is open to older CPF members who wish to join the annuity scheme ahead of 2013, when it will be implemented for those turning 55 then. For older CPF members, the monthly payouts will start as early as next January.

While many are still undecided, some, like Madam Wong Kwai Sim, 55, have taken the plunge. She has opted for the CPF Life Balanced Plan, which will give her an estimated monthly payout of $856 to $948 when she hits 65.

Madam Wong, who works part-time as a clerk, currently has $117,000 in her Retirement Account, which is also the prevailing MS.

'By the time I can get the monthly payout, my children will be independent. I can get some from CPF Life and keep some for them when I pass away,' she said.

The Life Balanced Plan gives a moderate payout and a moderate refund. If she had stayed on the current MS scheme, her monthly payout would be some $910 for about 20 years.

Storeman Tay Lee Kheng, 61, said it was his son Benjamin, 32, who helped him choose the Life Plus Plan, estimated to pay $463 to $492 monthly when he turns 62 next year. He has about $80,000 in his Retirement Account.

'I'm not looking to get anything from him when he passes away. It is better that he gets a higher payout...All the money is his anyway,' said Mr Benjamin Tay. The Life Plus Plan provides for higher monthly payouts and a lower refund.

For those who have not decided, here are some things you should know about CPF Life. You must choose the most suitable plan as you cannot change it after you join the scheme. You cannot withdraw either, except under certain conditions.

Q Who can join CPF Life?

You can join CPF Life if you are a Singapore citizen or permanent resident aged between 55 and 80, with savings in your Retirement Account.

Those aged 55 to 79 have up to the time they reach age 80 to sign up for CPF Life. But those aged 80 and above have to do so by December next year.

A bonus of up to $4,000 is given to Singapore citizens who do so by December next year. To qualify, your annual income and the annual value of your property must not exceed $54,000 and $11,000 respectively.

Q What is the monthly payout?

Your monthly payout depends on your Retirement Account savings used to join CPF Life.

There is no minimum amount required, but note that members with lower balances will receive correspondingly lower monthly payouts.

Other factors that will affect the monthly payout include your gender, the age at which you join the scheme and the CPF Life plan chosen. Generally, females will receive lower payouts as they tend to live longer.

If you wish to have a higher payout, you may make cash and/or CPF top-ups to your Retirement Account up to the prevailing MS.

You can use the CPF Life Payout Estimator at the CPF website www.cpf.gov.sg to find out how the monthly payout varies with your Retirement Account balance.

Q Is the monthly payout fixed?

No, the monthly payout may be adjusted every year to take into account factors such as CPF interest rates and mortality experience.

The adjustments will usually be small so that payouts are stable.

The current estimated payout range is based on CPF interest rates of between 3.75 per cent and 4.25 per cent and do not necessarily represent the lower and upper limits of the payout.

Q When will I start receiving my monthly payouts?

If you join before your drawdown age (DDA), you will start to receive your monthly payout from your DDA.

If you join after your DDA, you will start to receive the monthly payout from the following month after you are included in the scheme.

If you were born in 1943 or earlier, your DDA is 60. For those born between 1944 and 1949, their DDA is 62. If you were born in 1950 or 1951, your DDA is 63 and if you were born in 1952 or 1953, your DDA is 64. For those born in 1954 or later, your DDA is 65.

Q Can I change my plan after I join?

No, you can't. This is because changing your plan will affect other members who are already in the scheme.

Q Can I withdraw after I join?

No, except on the following grounds:

* Medical grounds of shortened life expectancy;
* Leaving Singapore and West Malaysia permanently with no intention of returning to either country.

If you are on one of the three CPF Life plans with a refund feature, you will receive a discounted refund of the savings used to join the scheme less the monthly payouts that you have received prior to your withdrawal. There may not be a refund if your savings have been fully paid out in monthly payouts.

If you are on the Life Income Plan, which is a non-refund plan, you will not receive any refund if you withdraw from the scheme.

Q What happens when I die?

Let's assume you have opted for a CPF Life plan with a refund feature. If you die before any payout is made, the full savings will be refunded. If you die after monthly payouts have started, the savings less monthly payouts will be refunded.

Do note that there may not be a refund if you die after the savings used to join CPF Life have been fully paid out in monthly payouts.

Any refund will be made to your CPF account and paid to your beneficiaries, together with the rest of your CPF savings.

If you had chosen the CPF Life plan without a refund feature, that is, the Life Income Plan, there is no refund upon death even if monthly payouts have not started.

Q How do I choose the most suitable CPF Life plan?

The four plans differ in the level of monthly payout and the refund amount that may be left to your beneficiaries. The refund, also known as the bequest, is based on the savings used to join CPF Life less monthly payouts already received.

Alpha Financial Advisers' business unit director, Mr Tan Siak Lim, says that a CPF member should try to strike a balance between his retirement lifestyle and the bequest amount.

'You should consider the effect inflation will have on the payouts over your life. As these are level payouts, the value of payouts will shrink over time as prices of goods rise.'

Here are the four plans:

* Life Basic Plan

This plan gives a lower payout than the Balanced Plan, but leaves more for your beneficiaries. It is recommended if you are in the pink of health or have sufficient savings outside your CPF, says Mr Patrick Lim, associate director at financial advisory firm PromiseLand Independent.

* Life Balanced Plan

If you wish to strike a balance between your monthly payout and the bequest, the Life Balanced Plan may be more suitable for you. This is also the default plan for members who are automatically included under the scheme from 2013, if they do not choose a particular plan.

Mr Thio Eng Huat, vice-president at ipac financial planning Singapore, believes that those who are fortunate to have supplementary income in their retirement may find the Life Basic or Balanced plans more suitable.

* Life Plus Plan

This plan provides a higher payout than the Balanced Plan, but leaves less for your beneficiaries.

Mr Lim says this will appeal more to individuals with chronic medical conditions who want the higher payouts to cope with the cost of living, and yet wish to leave something behind for their beneficiaries.

* Life Income Plan

This plan gives the highest payout, but does not leave anything for your beneficiaries. Although it is logical to conclude that this plan may be more suitable for those who do not have beneficiaries, Mr Lim does not recommend this for anyone. This is in case the member changes his mind or if his personal circumstances change. Another reason is that there is no refund upon withdrawal from the scheme.

Q What else should I consider?

You should not depend on CPF Life to meet all your retirement needs as the payouts may be insufficient.

Start saving more and plan your retirement early. To bridge the gap, you can consider additional income plans like annuities from insurers, says Mr Tan.

Mr Lim recommends NTUC Income's annuity, which comes with a guaranteed monthly or annual payout, with a potential to receive higher payouts the longer the policyholder lives.

Also, ensure that you have funds set aside for medical expenses and insurance, says Mr Thio.

***From The Strait Times, Tues 15 Sept 2009

The world easiest country to do business

2009-09-13T14:53:00.000+08:00

Economy	2009 Rank	2008 Rank
Singapore	1	1
New Zealand	2	2
United States	3	3
Hong Kong	4	4
Denmark	5	5
Ireland	7	8
Canada	8	7
Australia	9	9
Norway	10	11

The above Ranking is the latest statistic given by Singapore EDB (Economic Development Board)
Source: Doing Business 2009 Report, World Bank Note: The rankings for all economies are bench marked to June 2008. Rankings on the ease of doing business are the average of the country rankings on the 10 topics covered in the Doing Business 2009 Report.

That's the reason why there are thousands people who want to get into Singapore, be a apart of Singapore, try their best to apply for PR everyday. Who gets the chance? Are you the one? Then let's act fast to grab it while the door is still open widely for you. Contact Yenyang Management today!

Singapore attracts more foreign doctors

2009-09-05T09:22:00.004+08:00

Whoever studies or works as doctor right now and wishes to settle down your life in Singapore. This is the good chance for you.

The Ministry of Health, in conjunction with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC), will be recognising more top foreign medical schools to attract a larger number of good foreign doctors to work in Singapore. (*sourse from www.moh.gov.sg)

MORE foreign-trained doctors are flocking to Singapore, now that their medical degrees are recognised here.

Last year, it attracted 190 such doctors, including 39 Singaporeans returning here to work. This is a third more than the 138 who came here to work in 2005.

The numbers are still climbing, with 196 foreign-trained doctors - of whom 48 are Singaporean - joining the medical fraternity this year.

The majority of returning Singaporean doctors are those who wanted to pursue medicine, but were unable to secure a place at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

While it has increased the number of medical students at NUS, and will get a boost with the opening of the new Duke Medical School this year, the demand for doctors still outstrips supply.

Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan has said many times in recent years that Singapore needs to attract more good foreign doctors to work here, since the country will not be able to train up enough on its own.

Between 1993 and 2003, only graduates from 24 overseas medical schools could work here as qualified doctors - unless they also hold a specialist degree.

At that time, Singapore wanted to rein in the increasing number of doctors working here, for fear that too high a supply could lead to higher healthcare costs as patients are persuaded to undergo unecessary treatments.

So it had slashed the number of recognised degrees from 176 to 24.

But in recent years, Singapore, like most developed countries, is facing a shortage of doctors, especially in the public sector.

In 2003, the ministry expanded the list gradually, widening the net for doctors who can work here. The country now accepts graduates from 140 schools, mainly from developed Western countries.

From next month, another 20 schools will be added.

This time, the focus is on Asia, with six from China, five from India, four from Japan, two from Taiwan and one from South Korea. The remaining two are from Europe.

A ministry statement on Thursday said: 'As Singapore's population ages, there will be increasing demand on healthcare services'.

Demand will also be pushed up as more foreign patients flock here for treatment.

*Source: Asiaone Newspaper www.asiaone.com.sg

LPR Application: Things that you need to know

2009-09-04T15:47:00.004+08:00

Throughout years of doing PR, immigration services, we've been receiving thousands mails from our applicants all over the world. There are many doubts, many questions, many hesitations from miles apart that need to be clasified. Here are some common questions we used to received from our applicants.

Q: How long does it take to get Singapore permanent residency through the LPR program?
A: Processing time for LPR is roughly 3-6 months after submission of documents and payment of processing fee. Our consultants will assist you throughout the application process.

Q: I’m a fresh graduate, can I apply?
A: Fresh graduates are welcome to apply for LPR, please notify the consultant that you are a fresh graduate. Fresh graduates are not required to include salary slips, employment letters and income taxes etc.

Q: I don’t have a degree or older then 45 can I still apply?
A: Non-degree holders do not qualify under this program as such we do not recommend application. Older applicants have a much lower chance of success compared to applicants below 45 unless holding very specific degrees (doctor, dentist etc). However there are several immigration programs available. Our consultants will analyse and recommend the best program for you.

Q: How do I send the documents safely to you?
A: We recommend using DHL or other registered mail. Our consultants can help arrange for a DHL service to pick up your documents.

Q: What are the advantages of being a permanent resident compared to just working in Singapore?
A: Permanent residents enjoys privileges usually assigned to Singapore citizen like better job prospects, enrolling your children in government schools, housing grants for HDB (Public housing), CPF contributions etc.

Q: What are the available methods of payment?
A: We advise our clients to pay via cheque or bank transfer to our Standard Chartered bank business account in Singapore. For clients in countries with local agencies, they can send money via the agency. Currently we do not accept payment via paypal and credit cards due to our fraud prevention policy. Alternative payment can be arranged by speaking to our consultants.

Q: Can I pay in instalments?
A: We do not accept instalment payment of any kind.

Q: What happens if the application gets rejected?
A: We always ensure that all application documentation is done perfectly. In the rare case of application rejection we will refund unused amounts of the processing fee (less government processing fee, bank charges and administrative charges). The amount varies from case to case. No refund will be given if application is approved and the client decides not to continue with the
immigration process.

There are still many questions in your mind that you need to get the answer for of course. If so, why not just log on to our website HERE to apply and drop us an email for any question that you have??? We'll see you there!!!

Singapore: Yesterday and Now

2009-08-29T10:31:00.007+08:00

Ever wondered how Singapore looked in the old days and how much Singapore have changed so far? It's something interesting that we would like to share with you about Singapore: our nation, our pride, our love and we believe that you will love Singapore as much as we do!

Let's come back to the year of 60s and see how Singapore looked:

The old SHAW BUILDING in the past:

and a new young modern look at the present: Such a rapid movement!

Our National Musem in the old days:

compares to NOW. That is a huge change!

The Collyer Quay in years ago:

and a beautiful Collyer Quay now:

Singapore National Theatre in 60s

and at the same place, under same name: Singapore National Theatre NOW

Singapore's old look from top. It's developed, crowded, and beautiful, yes?

but it still cant compare to Singapore now. Look at this!

That's the reason why Singapore is one of the best place to live ever, the top country in South East Asia, one of the best countries with rapid economic growth, good living condition, safety and harmony, etc.... We are proud to be Singaporean, Singapore citizens!

Photos are collected at the sites below! Credits to the photographers!

UweBKK's photostream
Memories of Singapore
Cherlyn Photography

The youngest citizen of Singapore

2009-08-24T12:42:00.003+08:00

Congratulation on Tan Sing Yi the youngest new citizen ( 3 years old) of Singapore !!!

According to The Straits Times on 23rd August, 2009, her father, two older sisters and about 127 new Singaporeans recited the Pledge and sang the National Anthem, she too chipped in earnestly.

Her Malaysian-born father, service engineer Tan Kee Boon, 40, has been working here for more than 16 years.

'It's a happy day for my family. My children will have a good education and future here,' said Mr Tan, who is married to a homemaker.

On Saturday, some 3,600 people, like the Tans, became new citizens. Ceremonies were held in 13 group representative constituencies, while the NCC itself was held in the Supreme Court auditorium.

Speaking at the NCC, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Lim Swee Say urged both new and other Singaporeans to get to know one another, as they are now part of the same Singaporean family.

He also encouraged new citizens to join in upcoming celebrations like the Mid-Autumn Festival, Hari Raya and Deepavali, and to learn more about the rich and diverse traditions of the communities here.

'Immerse yourself in this unique Singaporean culture. Do not leave yourself out and do not be left out,' he said. Mr Lim said grassroots leaders, known as Integration and Naturalisation Champions, will work to help new citizens and immigrants settle into the country.

At the national level, the National Integration Council, formed earlier this year, will look into more ways for new and other Singaporeans to interact and strengthen their relationships.

Mr Lim also said that being bilingual is key in Singapore and new citizens should not only master English, but also remain strong in their mother tongue.

You can achieve the dream like how they did too? Simply just click at Yen Yang Management, we will help you step by step to pursuing your dream.

Thank you mum, dad and....Singapore.

2009-08-15T12:51:00.010+08:00

On the occasion of Singapore National Day, there are many people dedicated their love, joy and happiness to Singapore, to be a part of Singapore. Many of them are Singapore PR came from different countries in the world. What did they say????

From The Straits Time newspaper on 15th August:

"Thirty years ago, my parents took a courageous decision: they decided to try to make Singapore our home. It was courageous because it meant starting again, in an unfamiliar environment, away from family and friends in Myanmar. But Iam glad my parents decided to try, for that decision changed my life.
Celebrating National Day on Sunday with my colleagues, I thought how lucky i was to have grown up in Singapore. Lucky and proud. TO BE SINGAPOREAN.

Two values define Singapore for me: INCLUSIVENESS AND MERITOCRACY.

Growing up, I was inevitably the only Myanmar native in any setting. Indeed, I was more of a minority than a Malay or Indian. Yet, I was never treated differently, not by schoolmates or teachers. Not once was I made to feel I did not belong or was not welcome. My family lived in HDB flats and we had neighbours who were warm and friendly to us. We were always made to feel we were part of the community, not outsiders. This inclusiveness made us feel we belonged here and this was our home.
Which brings me to the next value I think defines Singapore- meritocracy.
I grew up believing that if I tried hard enough, was good enough, smart enough, I would do well. This belief was instilled in my by the environment I grew up at home and at school. My teachers encouraged me. My schoolmates, friends and I accepted that it was an environment in which everyone competed fairly, and it did not matter what your background was. Everyone had the same opportunities and shot at success. And if you did well, then you were given due recognition.

I believe these two defining values made Singapore what it is today, and the moment they are no longer values that define us, Singapore would surely fail.

I, therefore, find it disconcerting to read of Singaporeans complaining about new immigrants, such as foreigners taking their jobs or their children losing out of students who came to Singapore only recently. We can see how much feelings can develop into something worse and divide societies, and it would be disatrous in a small country like Singapore.

I have studied abroad, and travelled extensively in my work, and I would not wish to call anywhere else home. So as we enter our 45th year of nationhood, I would like to say "thank you" to my parents, and "thank you" to Singapore.

Minn Naing Oo.

Treat new citizens equally!

2009-08-14T12:20:00.004+08:00

SINGAPORE accepts only skilled and educated immigrants "who increase the average level of competence of Singaporeans", Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew said yesterday.

"Once they become citizens, they must be treated as equally as native-born Singaporeans, or our society will be fractured," Mr Lee warned.

Singaporeans have complained about new citizens and permanent residents taking away jobs from citizens, and that they do not speak or understand English even when they are working in sales or the service industry, he noted.
But their struggle with English means that "they cannot compete against Singaporeans", he said, addressing these complaints yesterday at a National Day dinner in Tanjong Pagar.
Yet they can be integrated because most of them come from familiar countries such as Malaysia, China and India, he said.
Their children will grow up as Singaporeans, learn English and compete with children of existing citizens for university places and scholarships.
But the Government will raise the number of bursaries and scholarships, and that of places in top schools, for existing citizens' children.

"So they will not be disadvantaged in getting admission to polys or universities," he said.

"Without the immigrants, Singapore will decline."

The Government has protected citizens by ensuring that they enjoy more privileges than permanent residents in areas like applying for HDB flats, the size of hospital and school fees, and in receiving Budget surpluses.
On immigrants, he said: "But we cannot make it so onerous that they will not come. For example, by requiring permanent residents or new citizens to be fluent in English, which even some existing citizens are not!"
Foreign workers have helped Singapore grow faster when conditions were favourable, and buffered the shock in the downturn, he added.
Many of the job losses this year have been among foreign workers rather than citizens. In fact, more citizens and permanent residents here have gained jobs in the first half of this year.
"Had we not had the foreign workers, more Singaporeans would have lost their jobs," Mr Lee said.
Despite the recession, the outlook is positive for Singapore, going by a recent investment here by the world's biggest oil company, ExxonMobil, he said.
It has just given Singapore a vote of confidence, by investing $4.5 billion to build a new plant on Jurong Island, he revealed.

Yesterday, he also urged Singaporeans to speak more Mandarin and study in China's top universities, so that they will have an edge in doing business with China.
But he reassured Singaporeans, saying: "It does not mean we are displacing English as our working and common language, our first language. English will remain the master language for all Singaporeans."
***Source from AsiaOne

Singapore Job market- What are chances for you?

2009-07-29T14:46:00.000+08:00

You are dying to apply for a job in Singapore to change your life? You are wondering with this bad curent economy situation, how is job market in Singapore like? Here is the proof to you:

There are still ton of job opportunities out there waiting for the applicant to take up. Who is the lucky one? If you are SINGAPOREAN/ SINGAPORE PR, chances for you is 60%, another 40% depends on how hardworking you are, how dedicated you are, all about your attitudes and willingness. But if unfortuately you are not SINGAPOREAN nor SINGAPORE PR, chances for you is 10% of success even though you have 90% of committment, hardworking, dedication, passion, etc.... That's the difference. Unless your qualification, experiences is super outstanding and you are someone that the company is desperated to look for. You win!

Still, as an experienced consultant, we always suggest our clients who are in oversea want to work, want to take up PR or citizenship in this country: APPLY for LANDED PERMANENT RESIDENT first. That's the gateway for you to change your life later. It's cheapest, fastest and most sufficient methods that most suitable for all who are living outside Singapore. Why not???
Talk to us to find out what it is and if you are daring to change your life, let's do it.

How to know if the agent can be trusted?

2009-07-24T14:51:00.000+08:00

Since Singapore government opens up the opportunity for foreigner to migrate into Singapore through Landed Permanent Resident scheme, there are many agencies become gateway for foreigners to apply. Applicants might have tons of questions about who is the agent, where are they, what they are doing, are they genuine agent, is it safe, bla bla bla.... since the both party mainly contact each other via internet, phone call, etc...So

HOW TO OVERCOME IT? HOW TO KNOW IF THE AGENT CAN BE TRUSTED!

Read this

1. LEGALITY
Question: Does the company register legally with government? Any site to prove that? Business registration number?
Answer: Yen Yang Management is registered under ACRA which stands for Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority Singapore (http://acra.gov.sg). Business registration number is available upon request.

2. HISTORY
Question: How long is the company in the industry? What is the company doing? Any website? Where is the company located?
Answer: Yen Yang has been in the industry for 12 years. Our main business includes HR recruitment service (mainly in F&B), immigration & migrating service. Our official websites http://immigration-singapore.com. Our company is located at 545 Orchard road, Far East Shopping Center, with 3 separate offices: #06-08, #06-11 and #06-15.

*The tips here is: if the company is not legally registered or not genuine, they wouldn't afford to have their own office or the office address is fake.

3. SPEED
Question: Does the company respond you quickly and sufficiently enough? Whenever you make a call to their office, does anyone pick up instantly?

4. MONEY CONCERN
Question: Does the company keep asking you to proceed payment first before access your profile to see if you are eligible to apply? Is your payment first matter to them? If yes, you need to be extra carefull before continuing with this agent.
Answer: A trusted agent will think: Money is important for business to grow but the truth, the business image are more important for the long run. None cheating-agent can sustain well and long in the industry. That's the truth.

There are still many other factors that can help you to distinguish from the trusted and cheated agent. The most important thing is you need to think carefully and judge well from the whole scenario so that you won't have to say sorry after that.

And after all, if you still have any doubt, dont hesitate to write to us, or talk to us anytime.

Job market outlook is brighten for professionals

2009-07-18T13:09:00.003+08:00

The job market outlook remains bright, particularly for white collar employees, but may be stabilizing.

Some 35,500 jobs were unfilled in September, or a vacancy rate of 2.4 per cent, according to data released yesterday by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

This third-quarter scenario was "better" than a year earlier when 29,900 jobs went begging in September 2006, or a 2.2 per cent vacancy rate. But June this year saw higher vacancies - the 37,400 unfilled posts were a 10-year high.

MOM said that the manpower shortage in Q3 was larger for professionals, managers, executives and technicians (usually known as PMETs) and clerical, sales and service staff. Their vacancy rate of 2.7 per cent was markedly higher than the 1.8 per cent for production operators, cleaners and laborers.

Across sectors, more jobs in services (2.8 per cent of total manpower demand) went unfilled in September, compared with manufacturing (1.8 per cent) and construction (1.4 per cent).

Wages continued to rise, but at a slower pace. After accelerating for three straight quarters, monthly earnings rose a slower 6.9 per cent in Q3, down from 8.5 per cent in Q2. In real terms, after adjusting for inflation, Q3 wage growth was 4 per cent, down from Q2's 7.5 per cent.

The latest data sees the Q3 job creation figure revised up to 58,600 from an early estimate of 57,600 announced last month. This, again, was higher than a year ago but below Q2's record high of 64,400. In all, the first nine months of 2007 saw the net addition of 172,400 jobs to the economy - not too far from the 2006 total of 176,000.

Retrenchment numbers have also been updated, and going by the 5,709 total for the first three quarters, the number of lay-offs in 2007 should be sharply lower than last year's 9,388.

As earlier reported, the jobless rate eased to a near-decade low of 1.7 per cent. And at 8,500, the number of "long-term unemployed" residents - those job-hunting for 25 weeks or more - also fell to a 10-year low in September.

About the only blemish in the labour market report is productivity, which went from a marginal 0.4 per cent gain in Q2 to flat in Q3.

*From AsiaOne*

www.asiaone.com.sg

Wage report 2008

2009-07-09T15:12:00.008+08:00

The latest update from Singapore government regarding the wage report in 2008. Check it out to see how much salary you will have if you want to work in Singapore.

Singapore needs immigrants to survive

2009-07-07T12:08:00.000+08:00

This is the latest new from Singapore government that all people who wish to migrate to Singapore are happy to hear about:

(*From AsiaOne) SINGAPORE, March 21, 2009 (AFP) - Singapore, which is facing its worst recession in history, needs foreigners to survive in the long-term, founding father Lee Kuan Yew said.

The city-state is not reproducing itself fast enough and the government has in recent years opened its doors to attract more talented migrants to avert a serious population shortage.

"Without new citizens and permanent residents, we are going to be 'The Last of the Mohicans'. We will disappear," Lee, 85, told an audience at a local university late Friday.

Lee is the country's first prime minister and remains an influential figure. He is an adviser in his son Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet with the title minister mentor.

Singapore needs a fertility rate of 2.1 babies per woman to maintain its population naturally but a string of incentives including monetary ones to encourage Singaporeans to have babies has failed to make an impact.

A report released this month by the Department of Statistics showed 39,935 babies were born in 2008, well short of the 60,000 births the country needs each year.

Singapore has a population of 4.84 million, including about one million foreigners who work in the country and their families.

The local economy is projected to shrink by up to 5.0 percent in 2009 and the elder Lee told the audience at the university it may take up to six years to recover in a worse-case scenario.

In a sign of how tough times are, Singaporeans trained as engineers are looking for jobs such as bus drivers once shunned by locals, The Straits Times reported Saturday.

Yen Yang One stop Center Agency

2009-07-03T16:52:00.000+08:00

Established in 1998, Yen Yang Management is one of the longest-established, private immigration consulting agencies. We are officially recognized specialists in obtaining skills, business, and family permanent residence visas.

Our one-stop service provides all necessary arrangements including :

Visa Application
Permanent resident (PR) application
Citizenship application
Work permit application
Student Visa application
In-principle Landed Permanent Residence Application (LPR)
School Placement
Housing arrangements

If you would like to find out any information, advice about how to get a visa/ Permanent Resident (PR), citizenship in Singapore, do talk to us, email us. We would be glad to assist you anytime.

2007 Rank	Location
1	Singapore - Singapore
2	Australia - Sydney
3	Australia - Melbourne
4	Japan - Kobe
5	Australia - Canberra
6	Canada - Vancouver
6	Denmark - Copenhagen
8	New Zealand - Wellington
9	Netherlands - Amsterdam
10	Japan - Osaka
10	Japan - Tokyo
10	Belgium - Brussels
10	Germany - Bonn
10	Ireland - Dublin
10	Switzerland - Basel
10	Switzerland - Geneva

Skilled Labour
Ranking	Country
1	Switzerland
2	Singapore
3	USA
4	United Kingdom
5	Ireland
6	Luxembourg
7	Australia
8	Canada
9	Hong Kong
10	Chile

Labour-employer relations
Ranking	Country
1	Denmark
2	Singapore
3	Switzerland
4	Hong Kong
5	Austria
6	Japan
7	Iceland
8	Malaysia
9	Costa Rica
10	Netherlands

Country	Ranking
Singapore	1
Hong Kong	2
The Netherlands	3
Switzerland	4
Ireland	5
Denmark	6
United States	7
Canada	8
Jordan	9
Estonia	10

Worker Motivation
Ranking	Country
1	Denmark
2	Switzerland
3	Singapore
4	Austria
5	Taiwan
6	Hong Kong
7	Norway
8	Sweden
9	Malaysia
10	Japan